In today’s competitive beauty industry, online reviews can make or break your salon. Potential clients scour the internet for feedback before booking an appointment, making your online reputation one of your most valuable assets. If you’re looking to attract and retain loyal customers, it’s time to make online reviews work for you. This cheat sheet will show you how to win at online reviews and even weave in a few ways to generate revenue with affiliate offers.
Why Online Reviews Matter for Salon Owners
1. Reviews Build Trust
Studies show that 93% of customers read online reviews before making a purchase decision. Positive reviews create trust, signaling to potential customers that your salon delivers quality services.
2. Improves Your Online Visibility
Search engines like Google reward businesses with positive reviews by ranking them higher in local searches. A well-reviewed salon is more likely to appear at the top of search results when someone searches for “best salon near me.”
3. Drives More Bookings
A steady stream of glowing reviews will act as a magnet for new clients. People trust real feedback more than promotional ads.
The Salon Owner’s Guide to Winning at Online Reviews
1. Start with a Review-Generating System
Creating a steady flow of online reviews requires a structured approach. Implement a system that prompts clients to leave reviews after their appointment. This can be done via text messages, email, or even a QR code displayed at the reception desk.
Pro Tip
Invest in a platform like Podium or Birdeye (affiliate links) to automate the review collection process. These tools make it easy to request and track reviews across multiple platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook.
2. Provide Exceptional Service Worth Talking About
Before you even ask for reviews, ensure your salon’s customer experience is flawless. From the moment a client books an appointment to the moment they leave, every interaction should exude professionalism and warmth.
Salon Tools That Help
- Online Booking Software: Tools like Fresha (affiliate link) streamline booking, making the process hassle-free for your clients.
- Salon Management Systems: Platforms like Salon Iris (affiliate link) allow you to manage appointments, send reminders, and track client preferences.
3. Ask for Reviews at the Right Moment
Timing is everything when asking for reviews. The best time to request feedback is immediately after a client has expressed satisfaction. For example:
- Right after a fresh blowout or color service.
- When a client compliments the salon’s ambiance or staff.
- After receiving a thank-you text or email for a great experience.
Script for Asking Reviews
“Thank you so much for choosing [Your Salon Name]! If you loved your experience, we’d greatly appreciate it if you could leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and helps others discover our services. [Include link or QR code].”
4. Leverage Social Media for Reviews
Social media is a goldmine for collecting and showcasing reviews. Here’s how:
- Instagram Stories: Share client feedback in your stories with a call-to-action like, “Had a great experience? Leave us a review!”
- Facebook Posts: Ask your followers to share their experiences and leave reviews on your Facebook page.
- TikTok Videos: Create fun, behind-the-scenes videos that showcase your team and client transformations, then encourage viewers to check out your reviews.
Affiliate Offer:
Promote tools like Canva Pro (affiliate link) for creating stunning graphics to showcase reviews on social media.
5. Incentivize Reviews Ethically
While most platforms discourage offering direct incentives for reviews, you can still encourage feedback in creative ways:
- Offer entry into a monthly giveaway for anyone who leaves a review.
- Provide a small discount on a future service for completing a post-service feedback form.
Example:
“Leave us a review this month for a chance to win a free haircut or $50 gift card!”
6. Respond to Every Review
Engagement is key when managing online reviews. Responding to reviews shows that you care about your clients’ opinions. Here’s how to do it:
- For Positive Reviews: Thank them sincerely and mention specifics about their visit.
Example: “Thank you for your kind words, Sarah! We’re thrilled you loved your balayage—can’t wait to see you again!” - For Negative Reviews: Respond professionally and offer to resolve the issue offline.
Example: “We’re sorry to hear about your experience, Jane. Please give us a call at [phone number] so we can make it right.”
7. Showcase Reviews Across Platforms
Once you’ve collected glowing reviews, don’t let them gather dust on a single platform. Highlight them on:
- Your website: Use a widget like Trustpilot (affiliate link) to showcase reviews directly on your site.
- Social media: Regularly post screenshots or testimonials from happy clients.
- Email newsletters: Feature a “Client of the Month” with a review highlight.
Tools to Monitor and Manage Reviews
Managing reviews across multiple platforms can be overwhelming. Simplify the process with review management tools:
- Google My Business: Monitor and respond to reviews left on your Google listing.
- Reputation.com: This platform aggregates reviews from multiple channels for easy management.
- Yext Reviews: Syncs reviews from various platforms, so you never miss one.
Affiliate Offer:
Use Semrush (affiliate link) to track keywords in your reviews and optimize your content strategy based on client feedback.
How to Handle Negative Reviews Like a Pro
No matter how perfect your salon is, negative reviews are inevitable. What matters is how you handle them:
- Stay Calm: Never respond in anger or defensiveness.
- Acknowledge the Issue: Show empathy and take responsibility where necessary.
- Offer a Resolution: Invite the client to discuss the issue privately and offer a solution, such as a refund or complimentary service.
Bonus Tip:
Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews to counteract any negative ones. A flood of positive feedback will dilute the impact of a bad review.
Partnering with Influencers for Review Boosts
Collaborating with local beauty influencers can skyrocket your salon’s visibility. Offer them free or discounted services in exchange for honest reviews and social media shoutouts. Make sure to:
- Choose influencers whose followers match your target clientele.
- Provide an exceptional experience they’ll want to rave about.
Affiliate Offer:
Recommend ring lights or beauty photography tools from Amazon (affiliate link) to influencers for capturing their salon experience in the best light.
Turning Reviews into Revenue
1. Upsell Products Based on Feedback
Monitor reviews for mentions of specific products clients love. If clients frequently praise a particular brand of shampoo or conditioner, highlight it in your salon and online shop.
Affiliate Suggestion: Partner with companies like Amazon Associates to recommend salon-quality products through your website or social media.
2. Create an “As Seen in Reviews” Package
Bundle popular services mentioned in reviews into a special package. For example:
- “Best Blowout Bundle”: Includes a blowout, deep conditioning treatment, and a take-home styling product.
- “Color Confidence Kit”: Includes hair coloring service, a follow-up toner session, and a color-protecting shampoo.
Promote these packages with language like, “Loved by our clients—book now to see why!”
3. Offer Referral Rewards
Encourage happy clients to share their reviews and refer friends. Provide discounts or free add-ons for each referral. For example:
- $20 off for both the referrer and the referee.
- A free mini service (e.g., eyebrow shaping or scalp massage) for each successful referral.
Final Thoughts: Winning the Online Review Game
Winning at online reviews is all about providing exceptional experiences, encouraging feedback, and managing your online reputation effectively. By using the strategies outlined in this cheat sheet, you’ll not only attract new clients but also turn your existing ones into loyal ambassadors.
Remember, reviews are an ongoing effort, not a one-time task. With the right systems, tools, and strategies, your salon can dominate the online review space and enjoy the business growth that comes with it.
Ready to start winning at online reviews?
Check out the tools and resources mentioned above to give your salon the competitive edge it deserves. Don’t forget to track your progress and celebrate your wins as you grow your online reputation!
